IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) is a fertility treatment technique that involves placing sperm directly into a woman’s uterus to facilitate fertilization. It is a less invasive and less complex procedure compared to other assisted reproductive technologies.
During the IUI procedure, the woman’s menstrual cycle is closely monitored to determine the optimal timing for insemination. This is usually done around the time of ovulation when the egg is released from the ovary. If necessary, fertility medications may be prescribed to stimulate the development of multiple eggs.
On the day of the procedure, a concentrated sample of sperm is prepared in the laboratory. The sperm may come from the woman’s partner or a sperm donor. The sperm sample is carefully washed and processed to remove any impurities or non-motile sperm, leaving behind a concentrated and highly motile sperm population.
Using a thin catheter, the prepared sperm is then introduced into the woman’s uterus through the cervix. This process bypasses the need for the sperm to travel through the cervix and the fallopian tubes, increasing the chances of successful fertilization of the egg.
After the insemination, the woman may rest for a short period and then resume normal activities. Pregnancy may occur if the sperm successfully fertilizes the egg and the fertilized egg implants itself in the uterus.
IUI is often recommended for couples with mild male factor infertility, unexplained infertility, or for individuals using donor sperm. It is typically performed in fertility clinics or reproductive centers by experienced fertility specialists. The success rates of IUI vary depending on various factors, including the underlying cause of infertility and the age of the woman.
